Japan, mid 20th century
Carved hardwood (likely rosewood), 47 × 29 × 22 cm (over 10kg in weight)
Excellent condition.
A substantial Japanese carved wood sculpture depicting cranes among pine trees - enduring symbols of longevity and resilience within Japanese visual culture. Richly carved and unusually weighty, the work possesses an immediate sculptural presence.
Carved from a dense block of richly figured hardwood, likely rosewood, the relief unfolds through deeply undercut layers. Twisting pine branches and cranes emerge and recede throughout the carving, creating a compelling sense of movement and depth within the solid mass. The grain and tonal variation of the timber reinforce the rhythm of the work, rewarding close inspection from every angle.
Weighing over ten kilograms, the sculpture possesses remarkable substance for its size, lending it an architectural presence. Its strength lies in the disciplined handling of depth, mass and symbolism - a sculptural work defined as much by the timber’s expressive qualities as by its narrative.
Japan, mid 20th century
Carved hardwood (likely rosewood), 47 × 29 × 22 cm (over 10kg in weight)
Excellent condition.
A substantial Japanese carved wood sculpture depicting cranes among pine trees - enduring symbols of longevity and resilience within Japanese visual culture. Richly carved and unusually weighty, the work possesses an immediate sculptural presence.
Carved from a dense block of richly figured hardwood, likely rosewood, the relief unfolds through deeply undercut layers. Twisting pine branches and cranes emerge and recede throughout the carving, creating a compelling sense of movement and depth within the solid mass. The grain and tonal variation of the timber reinforce the rhythm of the work, rewarding close inspection from every angle.
Weighing over ten kilograms, the sculpture possesses remarkable substance for its size, lending it an architectural presence. Its strength lies in the disciplined handling of depth, mass and symbolism - a sculptural work defined as much by the timber’s expressive qualities as by its narrative.
